September is Library Card Sign-up Month

This September marks the 30th anniversary of Library Card Sign-up Month—a time when The Princeton Public Library will join the American Library Association (ALA) and public libraries nationwide to highlight the value of a library card.

Throughout September, while supplies last, new patrons will receive a complimentary highlighter with their library card. We also still have a few special edition Charlie Brown cards available for an additional $5 charge.

Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. Libraries work to remind parents and youth that signing up for a library card is the first step towards academic achievement and lifelong learning.

Why sign up for a card? Everyone can enjoy the library, but all resources at the the Princeton Public Library are only available to library card holders. Anyone can attend our programs or take advantage of the services we offer, like copying, faxing, laminating, or using the computers and WiFi. However, checking out books, CDs, and DVDs requires a card.

In order to receive a card, an individual must present a form of identification that bears their name, current address and photo. A post office box mailing address is not acceptable. Children under the age of sixteen must have a parent’s signature on any initial application for a library card. The parent must fill out the application in the library.

If an adult resides beyond the jurisdictional boundaries of the Princeton Public Library, upon presentation of a current property tax bill showing taxes paid to the library and bearing the individual’s name, that person may have a free library card. Otherwise, others outside of the boundaries can purchase annual cards for a $94 fee per household.

Once an individual has registered at Princeton Public Library, he or she is free to use the card at any public library in the state.